Malkangiri

Malkangiri is a district in the state of Odisha, India. Its administrative headquarters are in the town of Malkangiri. Located in the southwestern part of the state, the district forms part of the forested and hilly terrain that characterizes the region and lies near the Andhra Pradesh border. It is bordered by Andhra Pradesh to the south and by the Odisha districts of Nabarangpur and Koraput to the north and east.

The terrain is part of the Eastern Ghats with dense forests, hills and the Sabari River valley. The climate is tropical, with a heavy monsoon season from June to September and hot summers.

The district was formed by division from Koraput, and administrative reforms reflect the development needs of a largely tribal region. The district has faced challenges from left-wing extremism, and security concerns have affected development in some areas.

Most residents live in rural settlements and depend on agriculture and forest-based livelihoods. The population includes tribal communities such as Gadaba and Kondh, along with other groups; Odia is the official language and local languages are spoken in daily life.

Economy is largely agrarian with agriculture and collection of forest produce. The Chitrakonda Reservoir on the Sabari River is a key irrigation and hydroelectric project in the district, contributing to local power supply and irrigation.

Road connectivity exists but the district experiences limited rail and air connectivity; the nearest railheads and airports are in neighboring districts.